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If you're within three years of early retirement, your success depends on more than just your net worth. In this episode of the BiggerPockets Money Podcast, hosts Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench sit down with Fritz Gilbert to break down the most overlooked part of financial independence: the mental, emotional, and social transition into retirement. Learn why the final years before FIRE are critical, and how failing to prepare beyond finances can lead to loss of identity, lack of purpose, and unexpected dissatisfaction. You'll discover Fritz's powerful framework for navigating the four phases of retirement, how to replace work-driven identity with purpose and community, and why curiosity, experimentation, and health span planning are essential for long-term fulfillment. Whether you're approaching financial independence or already planning your early retirement lifestyle, this episode gives you a practical roadmap to build a meaningful, flexible, and deeply satisfying life after work. To go beyond the podcast: Kick start your financial independence journey with our FREE financial resources - https://biggerpocketsmoney.com/ Subscribe on YouTube for even more content- www.youtube.com/biggerpocketsmoney Connect with us on social media to join the other BiggerPockets Money listeners - https://www.facebook.com/groups/BPMoney Connect with Fritz Gilbert Website: https://www.theretirementmanifesto.com/blog/ We believe financial independence is attainable for anyone no matter when or where you're starting. Let's get your financial house in order! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
What are the biggest mistakes people make on the road to financial independence? In this episode of the BiggerPockets Money Podcast, hosts Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench break down the 13 biggest FIRE mistakes that quietly delay or derail your progress toward early retirement. From starting too late and ignoring spending habits to misunderstanding the 4% rule and overlooking healthcare costs, these common financial independence mistakes can cost you years on your journey to FIRE. You'll learn how to avoid lifestyle creep, optimize your savings and investment strategy, reduce tax inefficiencies, and build a flexible financial independence plan that can adapt to real-world risks. Whether you're just starting your FIRE journey or already investing for early retirement, this episode reveals the most co To go beyond the podcast: Kick start your financial independence journey with our FREE financial resources - https://biggerpocketsmoney.com/ Subscribe on YouTube for even more content- www.youtube.com/biggerpocketsmoney Connect with us on social media to join the other BiggerPockets Money listeners - https://www.facebook.com/groups/BPMoney We believe financial independence is attainable for anyone no matter when or where you're starting. Let's get your financial house in order! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this episode of the BiggerPockets Money Podcast, hosts Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench sit down with Evan Lawler, a full-time engineer and content creator, to break down his plan to reach Coast FIRE with $500,000 invested by age 30. Instead of pursuing traditional early retirement, Evan is building a disciplined, automated investment strategy that allows his portfolio to compound while he focuses on career growth and enjoying his 20s and 30s. Mindy and Scott unpack Evan's early start in personal finance, his frugal lifestyle choices, Roth account strategy, and approach to negotiating raises and increasing income. From optimizing housing costs in Philadelphia to building long-term flexibility and balance, this episode offers a practical blueprint for anyone interested in Coast FIRE, financial independence, and smart wealth-building in their 20s. To go beyond the podcast: Kick start your financial independence journey with our FREE financial resources - https://biggerpocketsmoney.com/ Subscribe on YouTube for even more content- www.youtube.com/biggerpocketsmoney Connect with us on social media to join the other BiggerPockets Money listeners - https://www.facebook.com/groups/BPMoney Connect with Evan Lawler: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_financialfoundation/ Email: The.FinancialFoundation00@gmail.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@The_FinancialFoundation We believe financial independence is attainable for anyone no matter when or where you're starting. Let's get your financial house in order! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Ready to take a deep dive and learn how to generate personal tax-free cash flow from your corporation? Enroll in our FREE masterclass here and book a call hereAre you building wealth in the right order—or accidentally delaying the very foundation that makes bigger opportunities possible?If you're a business owner sitting on retained earnings, it's easy to treat every new opportunity like the priority—especially when real estate, acquisitions, or other growth plays look exciting. But this episode challenges a costly assumption: that a corporate wealth reservoir has to wait until after the next deal. Instead, it reframes that reservoir as the infrastructure that helps you pursue future opportunities with more control, liquidity, and long-term efficiency.In this episode, you'll hear how to:Rethink corporate-owned whole life insurance as foundational wealth infrastructure—not as a competing investment.Avoid the sequencing mistake that can quietly cost you years of compounding.Build a smarter capital strategy that supports liquidity, leverage, tax efficiency, and future investing flexibility.Press play to learn how to build your financial foundation first—so your next investment opportunity doesn't come at the cost of long-term wealth.
Ready to take a deep dive and learn how to generate personal tax-free cash flow from your corporation? Enroll in our FREE masterclass here and book a call hereDo you really need $5 million in cash to be financially free—or is that number missing the bigger point?Many people hear bold retirement numbers from wealthy entrepreneurs and assume financial freedom is a fixed target. But the real question isn't just how much money you have—it's how much liquid, flexible capital you control. Without that buffer, investing can feel risky, market swings become stressful, and opportunities pass you by. Understanding your personal “wealth reservoir” could be the difference between constantly worrying about money and confidently making financial decisions.In this episode, you'll discover:Why the famous $5 million rule is less about the number and more about creating true financial flexibility.How a wealth reservoir (your “sleep-at-night” money) allows you to invest, take risks, and weather downturns with confidence.The different places your liquidity can live—from home equity and cash accounts to insurance strategies and other safe assets.Press play now to learn how building your own wealth reservoir can give you the freedom to invest smarter—and live on your terms.
Are you a high earner in your 30s or 40s with a growing net worth — but somehow still feel financially stuck? You might be caught in the "boring middle" — a phase where your wealth is locked in home equity and retirement accounts, leaving you cash-poor, inflexible, and far from the financial freedom you've been working toward. In this episode of the BiggerPockets Money podcast, Scott Trench and Mindy Jensen sit down with CFP David Jackson of Domain Money to break down the middle-class trap and reveal why the conventional advice to max out your 401(k) may actually be slowing your path to financial independence. David shares three powerful strategic options for DEWK households (dual-income, employed, with kids) to build liquidity, optionality, and tax efficiency — without sacrificing long-term growth. You'll learn the Liquidity First Optionality Framework (LaFaF), how to think about diversifying across Roth, pre-tax, and brokerage accounts, and why psychological freedom matters just as much as portfolio size. Whether you're chasing FIRE, reassessing your retirement strategy, or simply tired of feeling trapped by your own financial success — this episode is your blueprint. To go beyond the podcast: Kick start your financial independence journey with our FREE financial resources - https://biggerpocketsmoney.com/ Subscribe on YouTube for even more content- www.youtube.com/biggerpocketsmoney Connect with us on social media to join the other BiggerPockets Money listeners - https://www.facebook.com/groups/BPMoney Interested in learning more Domain Money and working with David Jackson? Visit: https://biggerpocketsmoney.com/cfp/ Early Retirement Group, LLC (“BiggerPockets Money”), is acting as a promoter for Domain Money Advisors, LLC (“Domain”) and receives a flat fee for each client who enrolls in or purchases the promoted services. In addition to the compensation provided to Bigger Pockets Money, Scott Trench is a current client of Domain and received non-cash compensation related to his promotional activity. This compensation creates a conflict of interest because the promoter has a financial incentive to recommend the service. Clients should independently evaluate whether the service is appropriate for their needs. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
What's the real relationship between money and happiness? In this episode of the BiggerPockets Money Podcast, hosts Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench sit down with leading happiness researcher Matt Killingsworth to unpack what the science actually says about income and happiness. Drawing from real-time data collected through Track Your Happiness, Matt explains why happiness does not plateau at $75,000, how income and emotional well-being are logarithmically connected, and why control over your time may matter more than any specific dollar amount. Beyond debunking the famous happiness ceiling, this conversation dives into defining “enough,” avoiding the FIRE community's “one more year” trap, and understanding how relationships, engagement, and community drive lasting fulfillment. If you're pursuing financial independence and wondering whether more money will truly make you happier, this episode delivers research-backed clarity and practical frameworks to evaluate your own happiness metrics—so you can design a life that feels rich long before (and after) retirement. To go beyond the podcast: Kick start your financial independence journey with our FREE financial resources - https://biggerpocketsmoney.com/ Subscribe on YouTube for even more content- www.youtube.com/biggerpocketsmoney Connect with us on social media to join the other BiggerPockets Money listeners - https://www.facebook.com/groups/BPMoney Connect with Matt Killingsworth: Website: https://www.mattkillingsworth.com/ Track Your Happiness: https://trackyourhappiness.org/ We believe financial independence is attainable for anyone no matter when or where you're starting. Let's get your financial house in order! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Ready to take a deep dive and learn how to generate personal tax-free cash flow from your corporation? Enroll in our FREE masterclass here and book a call hereAre you avoiding your RRSP because you're afraid it could become a massive tax problem later?If you're a high-income earner or incorporated business owner, you've probably wondered whether stuffing money into your RRSP today just means paying 50% tax on it tomorrow. Maybe you've even held back contributions, thinking you'll “optimize it later” when you have the perfect plan. But in trying to avoid a future tax issue, you could be missing the bigger risk: not building enough in the first place. Wealth doesn't grow because you perfectly optimized every detail — it grows because you consistently created bigger “problems” worth solving.In this episode, you'll discover:Why an “RRSP that's too big” is usually a sign you're doing something right — and how to handle it strategically.How leverage strategies and smart withdrawals can turn a future tax concern into an opportunity to grow even more.How to think about asset location across RRSPs, corporate accounts, and non-registered investments to maximize flexibility and long-term tax efficiency.Press play now to learn how to use your RRSP as a powerful wealth-building tool — not something to fear.
Ready to take a deep dive and learn how to generate personal tax-free cash flow from your corporation? Enroll in our FREE masterclass here and book a call hereAre you holding too much cash “just in case” — and missing bigger wealth-building opportunities because of it?Most Canadians start with a simple emergency fund. But as your net worth grows, your “wealth reservoir” gets more complex — and more powerful. The problem? Many people never redefine their number. They double-count safety, sit on excess liquidity, or stay overly conservative without realizing it. Meanwhile, others jump into advanced strategies before they've earned the right to. If you've ever wondered whether your cash buffer is too small, too big, or just inefficient, this conversation will challenge how you think about financial security and opportunity.In this episode, you'll learn:How to clearly define your personal “tier one” emergency number — and why it should evolve over time.When excess liquidity becomes “gravy” that can strategically supercharge wealth through smarter moves.How your asset mix (real estate, ETFs, leveraged investing, business ownership) changes the size and role of your reservoir.Press play now to rethink your wealth reservoir and discover whether you're protecting your future — or unintentionally holding it back.
In this episode of the BiggerPockets Money Podcast, hosts Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench sit down with Grace Gudenkauf, a real estate investor who began her journey at just 23 years old with $15,000 in savings during COVID. Grace shares how she built a thriving rental portfolio in Iowa by leveraging local market knowledge, living below her means, and strategically balancing renovations, new construction, and entrepreneurship. Mindy and Scott unpack Grace's approach to deal analysis, seller financing, local bank relationships, and pivoting strategies during rising interest rates. From flipping to building triplexes with a “build one, keep one” model, Grace reveals how she's designing a low-leverage, resilient portfolio on her path to financial independence. If you want practical real estate investing strategies for your 20s—or a blueprint for long-term cash flow—this episode delivers. To go beyond the podcast: Kick start your financial independence journey with our FREE financial resources - https://biggerpocketsmoney.com/ Subscribe on YouTube for even more content- www.youtube.com/biggerpocketsmoney Connect with us on social media to join the other BiggerPockets Money listeners - https://www.facebook.com/groups/BPMoney Connect with Grace Gudenkauf: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/grace.investing/ We believe financial independence is attainable for anyone no matter when or where you're starting. Let's get your financial house in order! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Can you reach financial independence earning a median or below-median income? In this episode of the BiggerPockets Money Podcast, hosts Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench break down why making less money can actually be a powerful advantage on the path to wealth. Instead of chasing a higher salary, they explore how lower fixed expenses, smarter tax positioning, and intentional lifestyle choices can accelerate financial freedom. Mindy and Scott reveal the strategic habits, mindset shifts, and wealth-building tactics that lower-income earners can leverage over time. From Roth strategies and house hacking to side hustles and multiple small bets, this episode shows how consistent, smart decisions can compound into long-term financial independence. To go beyond the podcast: Kick start your financial independence journey with our FREE financial resources - https://biggerpocketsmoney.com/ Subscribe on YouTube for even more content- www.youtube.com/biggerpocketsmoney Connect with us on social media to join the other BiggerPockets Money listeners - https://www.facebook.com/groups/BPMoney We believe financial independence is attainable for anyone no matter when or where you're starting. Let's get your financial house in order! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Ready to take a deep dive and learn how to generate personal tax-free cash flow from your corporation? Enroll in our FREE masterclass here and book a call hereShould you actually retire with debt on purpose?For years, you've probably pictured retirement as completely debt-free — no mortgage, no payments, no financial pressure. But what if aggressively paying off your home is actually slowing down your path to financial freedom? If you're a high-income earner, business owner, or someone intentionally building wealth, the real question isn't “How fast can I kill this debt?” — it's “Is this debt strategically working for me?” Understanding the role of cash flow, inflation, taxes, and risk can completely change how you see retirement planning.In this episode, you'll discover:How inflation quietly makes long-term debt less expensive over time — and why that matters for your strategyWhen carrying debt into retirement can actually improve tax efficiency and preserve wealthThe key difference between emotionally uncomfortable debt and strategically powerful debt (and how to know which side you're on)If you want to rethink retirement planning and learn when debt can be a tool — not a threat — press play now.
What happens when a "late-starter" ER doc finally hits FI at 60, then must figure out how to actually spend the money without blowing it—or hoarding it forever? Bill joins Mindy and Scott on the BiggerPockets Money podcast to walk through his full "caught up to FI" debrief. Here his decade-long sprint from single-digit savings to 40%, taking his money back from a private bank, and the 60th-birthday retirement-readiness check that came back with a 100% success rate. From there, they dig into his move from a simple three-fund portfolio to a risk-parity setup, why he hired a flat-fee planner after years as a DIY investor, and how he's using FI to buy back time and jump-start his kids' wealth with Roth IRAs, HSAs, and tax-savvy living gifts. This episode covers: ➡️ Going from "rich but broke doctor" to FI in about 10 years ➡️ Boosting a savings rate from single digits to ~40% without feeling deprived ➡️ Shifting from a three-fund portfolio to a risk-parity decumulation strategy ➡️ Using flat-fee, advice-only planner instead of 1% AUM ➡️ Order of withdrawals: taxable, pre-tax, Roth, plus asset location ➡️ Modeling taxes, RMDs, and Social Security timing in real life ➡️ Building a "3-1-1" spending plan for needs, comfort, and luxury/giving ➡️ Helping adult kids fill Roth IRAs and HSAs as part of generational wealth ➡️ Weighing when to actually leave medicine once money is no longer the boss ============================== DEALS & DISCOUNTS FROM OUR TRUSTED PARTNERS MONARCH MONEY The modern way to manage money! Monarch will change the way you organize your financial life. Track, budget, plan, and do more with your money – together. Get 50% off the first year using this link and entering code: CATCHINGUP50 For a full list of current deals and discounts from our partners, sponsors and affiliates, click here: catchinguptofi.com/our-partners SUPPORT THE SHOW
Ready to take a deep dive and learn how to generate personal tax-free cash flow from your corporation? Enroll in our FREE masterclass here and book a call hereAre you accidentally letting hundreds of thousands of dollars sit idle in your holding company… unsure how to deploy it without triggering unnecessary tax?If you're a Canadian business owner with retained earnings building up in your holdco, you've probably felt the tension. You want to grow your wealth—but you don't want to make a costly mistake. Your accountant tracks what's happened, but who's helping you think proactively about what to do next? With salaries, RRSP room, rental properties, corporate investments, and tax efficiency all in play, it's easy to feel stuck between “do nothing” and “overcomplicate everything.” What you really want is clarity—and optionality.In this episode, you'll discover:A simple 50/50 framework for splitting retained earnings between risk-off liquidity and long-term growth.How to structure corporate investments to create tax-efficient capital gains and future tax-free income through the Capital Dividend Account.Why thinking holistically—across your corporation and personal assets—unlocks powerful flexibility, leverage, and long-term tax control.Press play now to learn how to turn your holding company into a strategic wealth engine—not just a parking lot for cash.
On this episode of the BiggerPockets Money Podcast, Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench are joined by Emily Egashira to hear about her financial journey. Emily's journey to financial independence proves that your starting point doesn't determine your financial future. Growing up in poverty with a scarcity mindset, she transformed her life and is set to reach financial independence by 40 through disciplined saving, strategic investing, and powerful mindset shifts. Emily breaks down the exact strategies that helped her save 45–50% of her income, manage healthcare costs as a self-employed professional, navigate market dips like the COVID-19 crash, and plan a dual early retirement with complex drawdown strategies. We also explore the psychology of money, overcoming limiting beliefs, growing income intentionally, and why having a financial plan changes everything on the path to FIRE and early retirement. To go beyond the podcast: Kick start your financial independence journey with our FREE financial resources - https://biggerpocketsmoney.com/ Subscribe on YouTube for even more content- www.youtube.com/biggerpocketsmoney Connect with us on social media to join the other BiggerPockets Money listeners - https://www.facebook.com/groups/BPMoney Connect with Emily Egashira: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heyfrienditsem Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Hey-Friend-Its-Em/61575209009919/ We believe financial independence is attainable for anyone no matter when or where you're starting. Let's get your financial house in order! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
On this episode of the BiggerPockets Money Podcast, Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench are joined by Frank Vasquez to explore small cap value investing, factor research from Eugene Fama and Kenneth French, and how funds like AVUV compare to total market index funds like VTSAX. They discuss historical outperformance, diversification benefits, expense ratios, index construction differences, and whether small cap value deserves a place in your long-term portfolio. To go beyond the podcast: Kick start your financial independence journey with our FREE financial resources - https://biggerpocketsmoney.com/ Subscribe on YouTube for even more content- www.youtube.com/biggerpocketsmoney Connect with us on social media to join the other BiggerPockets Money listeners - https://www.facebook.com/groups/BPMoney Connect with Frank Vasquez: https://www.riskparityradio.com/about Fairfax CASA Donation Page https://www.fairfaxcasa.org/give-now/ Father McKenna Center Donation Page: https://fathermckennacenter.org/how-you-can-help/donate/ We believe financial independence is attainable for anyone no matter when or where you're starting. Let's get your financial house in order! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Ready to take a deep dive and learn how to generate personal tax-free cash flow from your corporation? Enroll in our FREE masterclass here and book a call hereIs index fund investing really the best path to financial freedom — or is it only effective if you can survive the emotional rollercoaster that comes with it?Most investors are told the same advice: buy the market, hold for decades, and trust long-term averages. And yes… mathematically, it works. But the real question is: can you stick with it when the market drops 20%? Or when you're retired and withdrawing income during a downturn?In this episode of Canadian Wealth Secrets, Kyle Pearce and Jon Orr break down a powerful question many Canadians overlook:Index Fund Investing: Growth Strategy or Income Strategy?They explore why index funds feel simple on paper, why real estate often feels “safer,” and how the best portfolio isn't just the one with the highest average return — it's the one you can actually stay committed to.This conversation dives into:The real reason many investors abandon index funds during market volatilityIndex fund vs real estate: why real estate feels more stable (even when it isn't)How an income investing strategy can reduce emotional decision-makingWhy leveraged investing in Canada looks great in spreadsheets but feels scary in real lifeWhat the 4 percent rule in Canada misses when markets decline during retirementHow to think about diversification, “dry powder,” and building a portfolio that supports long-term income needsIf you've ever wondered whether your RRSP, TFSA, or corporate investments are built for true financial freedom — or just built for average returns — this episode will shift the way you think about investing.
Ready to take a deep dive and learn how to generate personal tax-free cash flow from your corporation? Enroll in our FREE masterclass here and book a call hereAre you accidentally letting “dead equity” sit idle when it could be working harder for you?Most Canadians think financial freedom optimization is about cutting expenses or chasing the next hot investment. But what if the real opportunity is hiding in plain sight — in your car, your mortgage, or any asset quietly losing value? In this episode, we unpack a simple car lease scenario that reveals a much bigger question: Are you thinking strategically about debt, equity, and optionality — or just following the default path?If you've ever wondered whether to pay cash, finance, lease, invest, or “just play it safe,” this conversation will challenge how you evaluate those decisions.In this episode, you'll discover:How to spot “alpha” opportunities — small arbitrage moves that compound into meaningful advantagesThe difference between depreciating vs. appreciating assets — and how to reposition equity more strategicallyWhy optionality might be one of the most overlooked principles in building long-term financial flexibilityPress play now to start seeing everyday financial decisions through a sharper, more strategic lens.Discover which phase of wealth creation you are in. Take our quick assessment and you'll receive a custom wealth-building pathway that matches your phase and learn our CRA compliant tax optimized strategies. Take that assessment here.Canadian Wealth Secrets Show Notes Page:Consider reaching out to KylIn this episode of Canadian Wealth Secrets, a simple vehicle scenario becomes a powerful lesson in alpha, arbitrage, and optionality — revealing how smart CanReady to connect? Text us your comment including your phone number for a response!If you listen to podcasts like The Rational Reminder with Ben Felix & Cameron Passmore, The Canadian Investor, The Canadian Real Estate Investor, Build Wealth Canada with Kornel Szrejber, ChooseFI with Jonathan Mendonsa & Brad Barrett, Afford Anything with Paula Pant, The Ramsey Show with Dave Ramsey, BiggerPockets Money, The Money Guy Show with Brian Preston & Bo Hanson, Invest Like the Best with Patrick O'Shaughnessy, Masters in Business with Barry Ritholtz, The Wealthy Barber Podcast with David Chilton, Financial Audit with Caleb Hammer, In the Money with Amber Kanwar, The Loonie Hour with Steve Saretsky, or More Money Podcast with Jessica Moorhouse — we're confident you'll enjoy Canadian Wealth Secrets too.Canadian Wealth Secrets is an informative podcast that digs into the intricacies of building a robust portfolio, maximizing dividend returns, the nuances of real estate investment, and the complexities of business finance, while offering expert advice on wealth management, navigating capital gains tax, and understanding the role of financial institutions in personal finance.
In this episode of the BiggerPockets Money podcast, hosts Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench are joined by Paul Merriman. Paul shares decades of investing wisdom and explains why simple index investing often outperforms complex strategies. We explore the power of diversification beyond the S&P 500, the importance of bonds in a portfolio, and how glide paths reduce risk over time. Paul also breaks down the psychological traps that sabotage investors—and how to avoid them. If you want to: Build wealth with index funds Create a smarter asset allocation Reduce risk while maximizing long-term returns This episode is your blueprint. To go beyond the podcast: Kick start your financial independence journey with our FREE financial resources Subscribe on YouTube for even more content Connect with us on social media to join the other BiggerPockets Money listeners Connect with Paul Merriman: Website: https://www.paulmerriman.com/ Paul's New Book ‘We're Talking Millions!': https://irp.cdn-website.com/6b78c197/files/uploaded/Were-Talking-Millions.pdf Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Ready to take a deep dive and learn how to generate personal tax-free cash flow from your corporation? Enroll in our FREE masterclass here and book a call hereWhat if carrying debt into retirement could actually reduce your taxes and increase your long-term flexibility?Many Canadians are taught that being mortgage-free is the ultimate financial goal—but what happens when that mindset clashes with taxes, retirement withdrawals, and lost growth opportunities? If the Smith Maneuver or leverage-based investing has ever made you uneasy, especially when you picture retirement looming, you're not alone. This episode breaks down why “good debt” doesn't suddenly stop working when your house is paid off—and how intentional use of leverage can turn future tax problems into strategic advantages.In this episode, you'll discover:How investment debt can offset RRSP/RRIF withdrawals and potentially eliminate taxes in retirementWhy starting the Smith Maneuver earlier creates more optionality and smoother income later onHow combining RRSPs, non-registered investments, and leverage can increase net worth while reducing long-term tax dragPress play now to learn how strategic debt, done right, can give you more control, lower taxes, and greater financial freedom over your lifetime.Discover which phase of wealth creation you are in. Take our quick assessment and you'll receive a custom wealth-building pathway that matches your phase and learn our CRA compliant tax optimized strategies. Take that assessment here.Canadian Wealth Secrets Show Notes Page:Consider reaching out to KylReady to connect? Text us your comment including your phone number for a response!Ready to connect? Text us your comment including your phone number for a response!If you listen to podcasts like The Rational Reminder with Ben Felix & Cameron Passmore, The Canadian Investor, The Canadian Real Estate Investor, Build Wealth Canada with Kornel Szrejber, ChooseFI with Jonathan Mendonsa & Brad Barrett, Afford Anything with Paula Pant, The Ramsey Show with Dave Ramsey, BiggerPockets Money, The Money Guy Show with Brian Preston & Bo Hanson, Invest Like the Best with Patrick O'Shaughnessy, Masters in Business with Barry Ritholtz, The Wealthy Barber Podcast with David Chilton, Financial Audit with Caleb Hammer, In the Money with Amber Kanwar, The Loonie Hour with Steve Saretsky, or More Money Podcast with Jessica Moorhouse — we're confident you'll enjoy Canadian Wealth Secrets too.Canadian Wealth Secrets is an informative podcast that digs into the intricacies of building a robust portfolio, maximizing dividend returns, the nuances of real estate investment, and the complexities of business finance, while offering expert advice on wealth management, navigating capital gains tax, and understanding the role of financial institutions in personal finance.
Ready to take a deep dive and learn how to generate personal tax-free cash flow from your corporation? Enroll in our FREE masterclass here and book a call hereAre you sitting on rental or business cash flow that could be quietly accelerating your mortgage payoff and cutting your tax bill at the same time?If you're a Canadian business owner, sole proprietor, or personally hold rental properties, chances are cash flows into your account each month—and then slowly leaks out to cover expenses. In this episode, Kyle and Jon unpack how that “idle” money can be put to work instead of collecting dust, using a strategy that builds on the Smith Manoeuvre without requiring you to go all-in or take on more risk than you can handle. They walk through real-world scenarios, common misconceptions, and the practical constraints that determine whether this strategy fits your situation.By listening, you'll learn how to:Turn non-deductible mortgage interest into deductible business or investment interest using cash damming—without increasing your overall debt.Improve cash-flow efficiency by recycling the same dollars to pay down your mortgage faster while still funding business or rental expenses.Apply the strategy conservatively or aggressively based on interest rates, mortgage rules, and your personal comfort level—so you stay in control.Press play now to see how cash damming could quietly boost your net worth and tax efficiency using money you already have.Discover which phase of wealth creation you are in. Take our quick assessment and you'll receive a custom wealth-building pathway that matches your phase and learn our CRA compliant tax optimized strategies. Take that assessment here.Canadian Wealth Secrets Show Notes Page:Consider reaching out to KylReady to connect? Text us your comment including your phone number for a response!If you listen to podcasts like The Rational Reminder with Ben Felix & Cameron Passmore, The Canadian Investor, The Canadian Real Estate Investor, Build Wealth Canada with Kornel Szrejber, ChooseFI with Jonathan Mendonsa & Brad Barrett, Afford Anything with Paula Pant, The Ramsey Show with Dave Ramsey, BiggerPockets Money, The Money Guy Show with Brian Preston & Bo Hanson, Invest Like the Best with Patrick O'Shaughnessy, Masters in Business with Barry Ritholtz, The Wealthy Barber Podcast with David Chilton, Financial Audit with Caleb Hammer, In the Money with Amber Kanwar, The Loonie Hour with Steve Saretsky, or More Money Podcast with Jessica Moorhouse — we're confident you'll enjoy Canadian Wealth Secrets too.Canadian Wealth Secrets is an informative podcast that digs into the intricacies of building a robust portfolio, maximizing dividend returns, the nuances of real estate investment, and the complexities of business finance, while offering expert advice on wealth management, navigating capital gains tax, and understanding the role of financial institutions in personal finance.
Ready to take a deep dive and learn how to generate personal tax-free cash flow from your corporation? Enroll in our FREE masterclass here and book a call hereHave you ever felt pressured into a “sophisticated” financial strategy you didn't actually understand?As a Canadian incorporated business owner or high-net-worth professional, you're used to handling complexity — but financial decisions feel different when the stakes are personal and the explanations fall short. Too often, strategies like estate freezes, corporate insurance, or private investments are presented with urgency instead of clarity, leaving you overwhelmed, hesitant, or quietly unsure if you're making the right move. This episode challenges the idea that pressure equals progress and reframes what real sophistication in wealth planning actually looks like.In this episode, you'll discover:Why poor financial outcomes usually come from lack of understanding, not bad strategiesHow to spot pressure from financial advisors disguised as “best practices” or “what wealthy people do”What confident, flexible wealth planning looks like when every tool has clear purpose and contextPress play to learn how clarity — not urgency — becomes the foundation of a wealth plan you can trust and stand behind.Discover which phase of wealth creation you are in. Take our quick assessment and you'll receive a custom wealth-building pathway that matches your phase and learn our CRA compliant tax optimized strategies. Take that assessment here.Canadian Wealth Secrets Show Notes Page:Consider reaching out to Kyleif you've been……taking a salary with a goal of stuffing RRSPs;…investing inside your corporation without a passive income tax minimization strategy;…leReady to connect? Text us your comment including your phone number for a response!If you listen to podcasts like The Rational Reminder with Ben Felix & Cameron Passmore, The Canadian Investor, The Canadian Real Estate Investor, Build Wealth Canada with Kornel Szrejber, ChooseFI with Jonathan Mendonsa & Brad Barrett, Afford Anything with Paula Pant, The Ramsey Show with Dave Ramsey, BiggerPockets Money, The Money Guy Show with Brian Preston & Bo Hanson, Invest Like the Best with Patrick O'Shaughnessy, Masters in Business with Barry Ritholtz, The Wealthy Barber Podcast with David Chilton, Financial Audit with Caleb Hammer, In the Money with Amber Kanwar, The Loonie Hour with Steve Saretsky, or More Money Podcast with Jessica Moorhouse — we're confident you'll enjoy Canadian Wealth Secrets too.Canadian Wealth Secrets is an informative podcast that digs into the intricacies of building a robust portfolio, maximizing dividend returns, the nuances of real estate investment, and the complexities of business finance, while offering expert advice on wealth management, navigating capital gains tax, and understanding the role of financial institutions in personal finance.
Ready to take a deep dive and learn how to generate personal tax-free cash flow from your corporation? Enroll in our FREE masterclass here and book a call hereIs the 4% rule still a reliable path to financial freedom in Canada—or is it holding your retirement plan back?You've heard it a hundred times: save 25x your annual expenses and withdraw 4% per year in retirement. But in 2026 and beyond, does that formula still stack up? Whether you're 10 years out from retirement or already hitting your financial freedom number, rigidly following outdated rules could put your lifestyle—and peace of mind—at risk. This episode dives into how the 4% rule was built, why it may not fit today's market realities, and how to think more flexibly about spending, investing, and enjoying your money without watching your net worth dwindle.In this episode, you'll discover:Why the original 4% rule was designed for failure avoidance, not lifestyle optimizationHow a flexible approach to withdrawals can empower smarter spending decisions year by yearThe mindset shift that can help you grow your net worth even in retirementPress play now to rethink your retirement strategy and build a wealth plan that works for your real life—not just the spreadsheets.Discover which phase of wealth creation you are in. Take our quick assessment and you'll receive a custom wealth-building pathway that matches your phase and learn our CRA compliant tax optimized strategies. Take that assessment here.Canadian Wealth Secrets Show Notes Page:Consider reaching out to Kyleif you've been……taking a salary with a goal of stuffing RRSPs;…investing inside your corporation without a passive income tax minimization strategy;…letting a laReady to connect? Text us your comment including your phone number for a response!If you listen to podcasts like The Rational Reminder with Ben Felix & Cameron Passmore, The Canadian Investor, The Canadian Real Estate Investor, Build Wealth Canada with Kornel Szrejber, ChooseFI with Jonathan Mendonsa & Brad Barrett, Afford Anything with Paula Pant, The Ramsey Show with Dave Ramsey, BiggerPockets Money, The Money Guy Show with Brian Preston & Bo Hanson, Invest Like the Best with Patrick O'Shaughnessy, Masters in Business with Barry Ritholtz, The Wealthy Barber Podcast with David Chilton, Financial Audit with Caleb Hammer, In the Money with Amber Kanwar, The Loonie Hour with Steve Saretsky, or More Money Podcast with Jessica Moorhouse — we're confident you'll enjoy Canadian Wealth Secrets too.Canadian Wealth Secrets is an informative podcast that digs into the intricacies of building a robust portfolio, maximizing dividend returns, the nuances of real estate investment, and the complexities of business finance, while offering expert advice on wealth management, navigating capital gains tax, and understanding the role of financial institutions in personal finance.
The 4% rule has a major flaw: it doesn't account for healthcare costs. If you're planning to retire early, health insurance premiums will rise sharply as you age—from your 30s through your 60s before Medicare kicks in at 65. This isn't speculation; it's how the U.S. healthcare system works under the ACA. On this episode of the BiggerPockets Money podcast, Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench break down why early retirees need a bigger financial buffer than traditional FIRE calculations suggest. Learn the real cost of healthcare in early retirement, strategies to reduce expenses (geographical arbitrage, health shares, catastrophic coverage), why you can't rely on ACA subsidies long-term, and how to build a healthcare plan that won't derail your path to financial independence. To go beyond the podcast: Kick start your financial independence journey with our FREE financial resources Subscribe on YouTube for even more content Connect with us on social media to join the other BiggerPockets Money listeners We believe financial independence is attainable for anyone no matter when or where you're starting. Let's get your financial house in order! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Ready to take a deep dive and learn how to generate personal tax-free cash flow from your corporation? Enroll in our FREE masterclass here and book a call hereWhat should you do when your corporation has more cash than clarity?Many incorporated business owners hit a silent milestone: revenue is steady, personal income is solid, but inside the corporation, retained earnings quietly pile up—doing nothing. Inflation erodes their value. Investment options seem risky, tax-heavy, or too complex. The real challenge isn't just finding a strategy—it's knowing what role that idle money should play. In this episode, Tyson, a physiotherapy clinic owner, shares his journey from uncertainty to empowerment as he reframes his financial approach and builds a stable foundation for growth.You'll discover:Why retained earnings can become a hidden liability if left unstructuredThe mindset shift from chasing returns to preserving optionalityHow corporate-owned whole life insurance can offer growth, access, and protection—without rushing into risky decisionsIf your retained earnings feel stuck or exposed, press play now to hear how stability and strategy can unlock new possibilities.Discover which phase of wealth creation you are in. Take our quick assessment and you'll receive a custom wealth-building pathway that matches your phase and learn our CRA compliant tax optimized strategies. Take that assessment here.Canadian Wealth Secrets Show Notes Page:Consider reaching out to Kyle…taking a salary with a goal of stuffing RRSPs;…inveReady to connect? Text us your comment including your phone number for a response!ManyReady to connect? Text us your comment including your phone number for a response!If you listen to podcasts like The Rational Reminder with Ben Felix & Cameron Passmore, The Canadian Investor, The Canadian Real Estate Investor, Build Wealth Canada with Kornel Szrejber, ChooseFI with Jonathan Mendonsa & Brad Barrett, Afford Anything with Paula Pant, The Ramsey Show with Dave Ramsey, BiggerPockets Money, The Money Guy Show with Brian Preston & Bo Hanson, Invest Like the Best with Patrick O'Shaughnessy, Masters in Business with Barry Ritholtz, The Wealthy Barber Podcast with David Chilton, Financial Audit with Caleb Hammer, In the Money with Amber Kanwar, The Loonie Hour with Steve Saretsky, or More Money Podcast with Jessica Moorhouse — we're confident you'll enjoy Canadian Wealth Secrets too.Canadian Wealth Secrets is an informative podcast that digs into the intricacies of building a robust portfolio, maximizing dividend returns, the nuances of real estate investment, and the complexities of business finance, while offering expert advice on wealth management, navigating capital gains tax, and understanding the role of financial institutions in personal finance.
Ready to take a deep dive and learn how to generate personal tax-free cash flow from your corporation? Enroll in our FREE masterclass here and book a call hereAre dividends really more tax-efficient for business owners—or is that advice costing you hundreds of thousands over time?If you're an incorporated Canadian business owner, you've likely heard the age-old advice: “Just take dividends—it's simpler and saves tax.” But what if that oversimplified strategy is quietly undermining your long-term wealth? In this episode, Jon and Kyle unpack the real math behind salary vs. dividends, revealing how your compensation choices ripple through CPP contributions, RRSP room, investment opportunities, and future flexibility. Whether your business is just starting out or generating strong retained earnings, understanding these trade-offs is crucial to building sustainable wealth.By the end of this episode, you'll discover:Why dividends don't always save tax—and when they can actually hurt your long-term growthHow to use salary strategically to open up RRSP room and diversify beyond your businessA clear, math-based breakdown of which approach works best at different income and retained earnings levelsPress play now to finally take the guesswork out of how you pay yourself—and make smarter, wealth-building decisions as an incorporated business owner.Discover which phase of wealth creation you are in. Take our quick assessment and you'll receive a custom wealth-building pathway that matches your phase and learn our CRA compliant tax optimized strategies. Take that assessment here.Canadian Wealth Secrets Show Notes Page:Consider reaching out to Kyle…taking a salary with a goal of stuffing RRSPs;…inveReady to connect? Text us your comment including your phone number for a response!If you listen to podcasts like The Rational Reminder with Ben Felix & Cameron Passmore, The Canadian Investor, The Canadian Real Estate Investor, Build Wealth Canada with Kornel Szrejber, ChooseFI with Jonathan Mendonsa & Brad Barrett, Afford Anything with Paula Pant, The Ramsey Show with Dave Ramsey, BiggerPockets Money, The Money Guy Show with Brian Preston & Bo Hanson, Invest Like the Best with Patrick O'Shaughnessy, Masters in Business with Barry Ritholtz, The Wealthy Barber Podcast with David Chilton, Financial Audit with Caleb Hammer, In the Money with Amber Kanwar, The Loonie Hour with Steve Saretsky, or More Money Podcast with Jessica Moorhouse — we're confident you'll enjoy Canadian Wealth Secrets too.Canadian Wealth Secrets is an informative podcast that digs into the intricacies of building a robust portfolio, maximizing dividend returns, the nuances of real estate investment, and the complexities of business finance, while offering expert advice on wealth management, navigating capital gains tax, and understanding the role of financial institutions in personal finance.
Are you on track to achieve financial independence? In this episode of the BiggerPockets Money podcast, Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench outline the essential financial milestones for your 20s, 30s, 40s, and 50s. Learn the net worth benchmarks and financial habits that will set you up for a successful journey to financial freedom in EVERY decade. Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your strategy, this comprehensive guide will help you plan and achieve your financial goals. To go beyond the podcast: Kick start your financial independence journey with our FREE financial resources Subscribe on YouTube for even more content Connect with us on social media to join the other BiggerPockets Money listeners We believe financial independence is attainable for anyone no matter when or where you're starting. Let's get your financial house in order! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Ready to take a deep dive and learn how to generate personal tax-free cash flow from your corporation? Enroll in our FREE masterclass here and book a call hereAre you relying on “just growing the pile” to fund your retirement?Too many Canadian business owners hope their savings will be “enough” without ever truly running the numbers—or questioning the assumptions behind their plan. In this episode, Jon Orr and Kyle Pearce break down a real case study of a listener preparing to retire at 55. They uncover the common blind spots around equity-heavy portfolios, the behavioral traps that derail even the smartest strategies, and why knowing your number isn't the same as building a system that gets you there. Whether you're 5 or 15 years out from retirement, this deep dive is full of insights to tighten your approach.You'll discover:Why a clear monthly cash flow target is more useful than a vague retirement “pile.”The risks of a 100% equity portfolio during the decumulation phase—and how to mitigate them.How to align your investment strategy with your behavior, so your plan doesn't fall apart when the market does.Press play now to find out where this listener nailed their strategy—and where small shifts could mean a more confident, flexible retirement.Discover which phase of wealth creation you are in. Take our quick assessment and you'll receive a custom wealth-building pathway that matches your phase and learn our CRA compliant tax optimized strategies. Take that assessment here.Canadian Wealth Secrets Show Notes Page:Consider reaching out to Kyle…taking a salary with a goal of stuffing RRSPs;…investing inside your corporation without a passive income tax minimization strategy;…letting a large suReady to connect? Text us your comment including your phone number for a response!If you listen to podcasts like The Rational Reminder with Ben Felix & Cameron Passmore, The Canadian Investor, The Canadian Real Estate Investor, Build Wealth Canada with Kornel Szrejber, ChooseFI with Jonathan Mendonsa & Brad Barrett, Afford Anything with Paula Pant, The Ramsey Show with Dave Ramsey, BiggerPockets Money, The Money Guy Show with Brian Preston & Bo Hanson, Invest Like the Best with Patrick O'Shaughnessy, Masters in Business with Barry Ritholtz, The Wealthy Barber Podcast with David Chilton, Financial Audit with Caleb Hammer, In the Money with Amber Kanwar, The Loonie Hour with Steve Saretsky, or More Money Podcast with Jessica Moorhouse — we're confident you'll enjoy Canadian Wealth Secrets too.Canadian Wealth Secrets is an informative podcast that digs into the intricacies of building a robust portfolio, maximizing dividend returns, the nuances of real estate investment, and the complexities of business finance, while offering expert advice on wealth management, navigating capital gains tax, and understanding the role of financial institutions in personal finance.
Last year, Scott Trench, former BiggerPockets CEO, made a big bet on real estate—selling $1,000,000 in stocks to buy rentals instead. A year later, he's on the show, and we've got one crucial question to ask him. Was it worth it? The man behind the mustache (yes, he's still got it!) is joining us today to give a life update and share how his huge financial decision played out. But a lot has changed in the past year, markets aside. Scott stepped down as BiggerPockets CEO and is now fully dedicated to BiggerPockets Money, helping as many people as possible find their own version of financial freedom. We'll go over his $1,000,000 stock sell-off, how his investments have been performing since then, his 2026 outlook, and why he believes many investors will be proven wrong about the housing market and real estate investments. Scott believes the next three years will be an “absorption” phase for real estate, but what does that mean for your property values, rent prices, and cash flow? And don't worry, Scott also shares what he's been doing since stepping away from 100-hour weeks as BiggerPockets CEO. In This Episode We Cover Was selling worth it? The results of Scott's $1,000,000 bet on rentals Scott's growing fear about the stock market and AI-led price rallies Scott's investment portfolio in 2026 and why he still has so much of his net worth in the stock market The “absorption” phase begins, and Scott's 2026 rent price growth prediction Stocks vs. real estate: Are either truly safe in an economy like this? And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/real-estate-1229 Interested in learning more about today's sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Ready to take a deep dive and learn how to generate personal tax-free cash flow from your corporation? Enroll in our FREE masterclass here and book a call hereIs your financial freedom being hijacked by your emotions?We all like to think we're logical with money—crunching the numbers, weighing the odds, making the “smart” move. But the truth? Most of our financial behavior is driven by emotion, not math. In this episode, Jon Orr and Kyle Pearce unpack the hidden psychological tug-of-war that shapes our habits, investment choices, and long-term wealth strategies. Inspired by Freakonomics Radio and grounded in behavioral finance, they explore why knowing what to do isn't the same as doing it—and what actually makes the difference.You'll discover:A practical framework (elephant vs. rider) for understanding and overcoming self-sabotaging money habits.How to bridge the gap between financial theory and real-life action—even when fear or doubt creeps in.Smart ways to align your investments and financial systems with behavior you can actually sustain.If you've ever struggled to follow through on the “right” financial move to gain financial freedom, press play now—this episode could change how you think (and act) with money.Discover which phase of wealth creation you are in. Take our quick assessment and you'll receive a custom wealth-building pathway that matches your phase and learn our CRA compliant tax optimized strategies. Take that assessment here.Canadian Wealth Secrets Show Notes Page:Consider reaching out to Kyle…taking a salary with a goal of stuffing RRSPs;…investing inside your corporation without a passive income tax minimization strategy;…letting a large sum of liquid assets sit in low interest earReady to connect? Text us your comment including your phone number for a response!If you listen to podcasts like The Rational Reminder with Ben Felix & Cameron Passmore, The Canadian Investor, The Canadian Real Estate Investor, Build Wealth Canada with Kornel Szrejber, ChooseFI with Jonathan Mendonsa & Brad Barrett, Afford Anything with Paula Pant, The Ramsey Show with Dave Ramsey, BiggerPockets Money, The Money Guy Show with Brian Preston & Bo Hanson, Invest Like the Best with Patrick O'Shaughnessy, Masters in Business with Barry Ritholtz, The Wealthy Barber Podcast with David Chilton, Financial Audit with Caleb Hammer, In the Money with Amber Kanwar, The Loonie Hour with Steve Saretsky, or More Money Podcast with Jessica Moorhouse — we're confident you'll enjoy Canadian Wealth Secrets too.Canadian Wealth Secrets is an informative podcast that digs into the intricacies of building a robust portfolio, maximizing dividend returns, the nuances of real estate investment, and the complexities of business finance, while offering expert advice on wealth management, navigating capital gains tax, and understanding the role of financial institutions in personal finance.
Episode #704 ~~~ Download the Goal Setting Document: www.biggerpocketsmoney.com/resources ~~~ Subscribe to the 31 Day Challenge: www.biggerpocketsmoney.com/31days ~~~ Subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter: www.biggerpocketsmoney.com ~~~ Want to be a guest on the show? Apply here: https://biggerpocketsmoney.com/contact/ ~~~ Get 50% Off Your First Year of Monarch by using code ‘Pockets': https://www.monarchmoney.com/ ~~~ Connect with Scott and Mindy: Scott: https://www.instagram.com/scott_trench/ Mindy: https://www.instagram.com/_mindyatbp/ ~~~ Follow BiggerPockets Money on Social: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/BPMoney Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/biggerpocketsmoney/ ~~~ Learn how to set and achieve your 2026 goals in this episode of the BiggerPockets Money podcast with hosts Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench. In this episode, Mindy and Scott review their 2025 achievements and create actionable plans for 2026, covering everything from family milestones and fitness goals to business ventures and financial targets. You'll discover proven goal-setting techniques, strategic planning frameworks, and practical tips for turning New Year's resolutions into real results. What You'll Learn: Strategic goal-setting frameworks for personal, financial, and professional growth How to set realistic yet ambitious goals for 2026 Accountability strategies to actually achieve your resolutions Real examples of personal finance goals and wealth-building plans How to track progress and adjust goals throughout the year And SO much more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
We are joined by Scott Trench and Mindy Jensen from BiggerPockets Money for this live mastermind meeting. We discuss real estate, the middle class wealth trap, and safe withdrawal rates. Lastly. mastermind members ask questions and get surprising answers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
We love collaborations and this time we teamed up with Mindy and Scott from BiggerPockets Money to tackle a case study you don't want to miss: "How to go from Broke at 50 to Retired at 60!" This originally aired on BiggerPockets Money in August, and since then it received over 300,000 views and quickly moved up to the second most popular video on their YouTube Channel. Needless to say, this topic, got people talking! We spell out exactly what we would do to go from a zero-dollar net worth to a million dollars in retirement! This is a step-by-step plan that anyone who wants to retire on time can follow, focusing specifically on Barb - a recently divorced stay-at-home mom reentering the workforce with a zero-dollar net worth. Her situation represents millions of people who find themselves starting over financially in their fifties, whether due to divorce, job loss, or simply never having started saving for retirement. ===DEALS & DISCOUNTS FROM OUR TRUSTED PARTNERS===
Will 2026 healthcare costs destroy your FIRE plan? Enhanced ACA tax credits expire in 2026—meaning health insurance premiums could DOUBLE or TRIPLE overnight. This healthcare subsidy cliff threatens millions who depend on affordable marketplace coverage. In this episode of the BiggerPockets Money podcast, Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench interview Matt McGough from KFF to break down the 2026 healthcare crisis and what you can do NOW to protect your early retirement. This Episode Covers: Who gets hit hardest by 2026 healthcare premium increases Exact cost projections for early retirement health insurance in 2026 Actionable strategies to prepare NOW for rising healthcare costs Which FIRE strategies still work after ACA subsidy changes Affordable health insurance alternatives for early retirees History of ACA subsidies and why they're expiring Steps to protect your financial independence from the healthcare affordability crisis And SO much more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Think you need a six-figure salary to retire early? Think again. Middle school teacher Andrew Luman is achieving financial independence and retiring at 50—all on a teacher's salary. In this episode of the BiggerPockets Money podcast, hosts Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench unpack Andrew's complete FIRE strategy, proving that early retirement isn't reserved for high earners. In this episode, you'll learn: How Andrew discovered the FIRE movement and started his financial independence journey Building wealth on $35,000 a year: Andrew's early budgeting strategies The power of a high savings rate and how to achieve it on a modest income House hacking explained: How Andrew used a multi-unit property to eliminate housing costs Real estate investing for teachers and average income earners Portfolio breakdown: Andrew's asset allocation and investment strategy for early retirement The four-day work week advantage and how it accelerated his path to FIRE Choosing time over money: lifestyle decisions that make early retirement possible Side hustles for FIRE: Which ones are worth it Cash management strategies for approaching financial independence Approaching your FIRE number: What the final stretch looks like And SO much more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Time's running out on 2025, and there are critical financial moves you need to make before December 31st. In this episode of the BiggerPockets Money podcast, Mindy and Scott walk you through the essential year-end tasks that could save you thousands of dollars and keep your FIRE goals on track. These aren't just suggestions—they're time-sensitive opportunities that literally disappear when the calendar flips to January 1st. Whether you're aggressively pursuing financial independence or simply want to optimize your money, ignoring these year-end deadlines could cost you big. The good news? Most of these tasks take less than an hour to complete, and the payoff can be substantial. In this episode, you'll discover: How to maximize your tax-advantaged retirement accounts before contribution deadlines Why you need to spend every dollar in your FSA or lose it forever Tax-loss harvesting strategies to offset gains and reduce your tax bill Strategic charitable giving tactics that benefit both you and your favorite causes When and how to rebalance your investment portfolio for optimal performance Critical Roth conversion considerations before year-end HSA contribution limits and why maxing out matters for FIRE Required minimum distribution rules you can't ignore How to bunch deductions to maximize tax benefits The BiggerPockets Money End of Year Checklist And SO much more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Paul has a $1.6 million net worth at 40 years old—impressive by any standard—but he's stuck wondering: Can I retire in the next 5-6 years? In this episode of BiggerPockets Money, Paul shares his journey from debt payoff to building substantial rental income during COVID-19. Now he's sitting on significant equity, strong cash flow, and a critical question: What's the fastest route to FIRE? Hosts Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench dive deep into Paul's complete financial picture—his income, expenses, real estate portfolio, and debt—to map out his optimal path to early retirement. Should he pay down mortgages? Buy more properties? Pivot to index funds? They explore every angle to help Paul retire by 45-46. This episode covers: Paul's complete financial breakdown: income, expenses, assets, and liabilities How Paul pivoted to real estate investing during COVID-19 and built rental income The mortgage payoff vs. investing debate for someone close to FIRE Whether Paul should buy more rental properties or shift to index funds Optimizing Paul's portfolio to retire in 5-6 years Tax strategies and withdrawal planning for early retirement The trade-offs between cash flow and equity in a real estate portfolio Bridge account strategies to access wealth before 59½ If you're wondering how to accelerate your own FIRE timeline when you're already doing well financially, this episode is packed with actionable strategies you can apply to your situation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
You're doing everything right—buying a house, maxing out your 401(k), investing in real estate—but what if these "smart" money moves are actually trapping you in your job? It's the paradox plaguing the FIRE community: you could be a millionaire on paper but can't afford to retire because all your wealth is locked up. Welcome to the BiggerPockets Money podcast! In this episode learn what the middle class “trap” is, why it happens, and most importantly, how to escape it. Scott and Mindy use the example of 'Sam,' a diligent saver, to explain the practical strategies for achieving financial independence, whether through Coast FIRE, Roth conversion ladders, 72(t) distributions, or more aggressive frugality and saving. They also address both the critiques and supporters of this notion, providing actionable advice for anyone feeling financially stuck despite their best efforts. 00:00 Are You in the Middle Class Trap? 00:30 What is the Middle Class Trap? 00:57 The “Ideal” Retirement Portfolio 05:12 The Controversy of the Middle Class Trap 08:53 Strategies to Escape the Trap 18:26 Advanced Financial Strategies 28:06 Mindy and Scott's Early Retirement Roadmap 34:31 Share YOUR portfolio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The wealthiest 1% invest completely differently than you've been taught—and they definitely don't follow the advice most financial advisors give. In this episode of BiggerPockets Money, hosts Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench sit down with Tad Fallows, co-founder of Long Angle, to reveal the real investment strategies of high-net-worth individuals and how they differ from the FIRE community's approach. This Episode Covers: The most common paths to joining the 1% (entrepreneurship, tech executive roles, and high-conviction investments) Why the ultra-wealthy favor index funds, private equity, and real estate over traditional investments Why high-net-worth individuals largely avoid financial advisors and bonds How Tad went from consulting to founding a successful medical research software company to co-founding Long Angle Key differences between how the 1% manage their portfolios versus mainstream investment advice What the FIRE community can learn from the investment strategies of the ultra-wealthy And SO much more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Ericka Young did what most people think is impossible—she went from 90k in debt to Coast FI with a seven-figure net worth. In this episode of the BiggerPockets Money podcast, she's pulling back the curtain on how she did it. What You'll Learn: How to eliminate massive debt without living in total deprivation The debt snowball method in action (and why it works psychologically) When to stop paying off debt and start investing aggressively Investment strategies that built $2.5 million in net worth The mindset shift from "getting by" to building real wealth Perfect for: Anyone in debt who wants a realistic path to financial independence, or for people looking to accelerate their wealth-building timeline. Ericka's a financial coach who's been exactly where you are. Her story is proof that financial freedom isn't reserved for high earners—it's about strategy, discipline, and knowing when to shift gears. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this BiggerPockets Money episode, we break down the all-out approach to reaching Financial Independence and Retiring Early in your 30s. No tech salary required, no inheritance, no luck. Just aggressive saving, smart investing, and a willingness to optimize every dollar. We'll cover: The exact savings rate you need to hit FIRE in your 30's How to maximize income without changing careers Where to cut expenses without feeling deprived Investment strategies that accelerate your timeline The lifestyle trade-offs that actually matter Real numbers: What it takes to build a $500K-$750K portfolio on $50K-$70K/year Whether you're just starting your FI journey or you're years in and wondering if you're on track, this episode gives you the honest roadmap to early retirement—no matter your starting salary. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Let's talk about the average net worth by every age, and how to make sure you save and invest enough money to stay on track. In this episode of the BiggerPockets Money podcast, Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench break down actual data to reveal the net worth benchmarks for the median, top 10%, top 5%, and top 1% of every age. If that isn't enough they then highlight specific strategies that work at each age to hit those benchmarks—from aggressive wealth-building tactics in your 20s and 30s to business ownership and real estate scaling in your 40s, to preservation strategies in your 50s and 60s. Whether you're behind and need to catch up or ahead and want to optimize, this episode gives you the roadmap for your decade so you can hit your financial independence goals. 00:00 Net Worth by Age - Are You on Track? 01:09 Defining Net Worth and FIRE Portfolio 02:44 Analyzing Net Worth by Age 03:58 Key Takeaways from Net Worth Data 12:03 How to Be in The Top 1-10% in Your 20s 16:17 How to Be in The Top 1-10% in Your 30s 21:17 How to Be in The Top 1-10% in Your 40s 25:22 How to Be in The Top 1-10% in Your 50s 30:51 How to Be in The Top 1-10% in Your 60s Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Should you sell your house right now or turn it into a rental property? In this episode of the BiggerPockets Money podcast, hosts Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench dive deep into one of the biggest financial decisions you'll ever make with their guest Sean. He is sitting on serious equity but isn't sure what his next move should be. We break down his entire financial situation using a custom spreadsheet model that analyzes net worth, mortgage rates, rental income potential, cash flow projections, and long-term wealth building strategies. This isn't just theory—we're crunching real numbers to show you exactly how to think through this decision. We examine market conditions, tax implications, opportunity costs, and the hidden expenses most people forget when they become landlords. Whether you're dealing with a primary residence, investment property, or house hack situation, this episode gives you a replicable decision-making process you can use for your own real estate choices. By the end of this episode, you'll understand the financial trade-offs between liquidity and long-term appreciation, how to calculate true rental yields, and when holding onto property actually destroys wealth instead of building it. If you're facing a similar decision or planning your real estate exit strategy, this is the most comprehensive breakdown you'll find anywhere. 00:00 Should You Sell or Keep Your House? 01:17 Financial Overview: Net Worth, Income & Equity 02:33 Mortgage Rate Analysis and Current Housing Market Conditions 03:07 Rental Property Cash Flow Calculator 13:41 Hidden Rental Property Expenses and Long-Term Investment Returns 19:30 How Selling vs Renting Impacts Your Cash Flow and Net Worth 21:11 Net Worth Projections: Sell Now vs Hold 5, 10, 20 Years 23:27 Rental Property Cash Flow vs Home Sale Proceeds Analysis 24:29 Best Time to Sell Your House 26:26 Which Option Builds More Wealth? 31:14 Final Verdict: Should You Sell Your House Now? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
What if you could take a year off at 31 and still retire early? Alex Morales, also known as Girl Chasing Wealth, is doing exactly that. In this BiggerPockets Money episode, she sits down with Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench to reveal how she's funding a year-long sabbatical while staying on track to achieve financial independence by 44, all on a median salary in a high-cost-of-living area. Alex's journey proves you don't need a six-figure income or to live in a low-cost city to make FIRE work—you just need the right strategies. Alex shares her unconventional approach to building wealth, including managing roommates to slash housing costs, ruthlessly cutting expenses that don't align with her values, and building side income streams for flexibility. But this isn't just about saving money—it's about designing a life that lets you take meaningful breaks without derailing your financial goals. Whether you're burned out, curious about sabbaticals, or convinced early retirement requires constant hustle, this conversation will change how you think about the path to financial freedom. This Episode Covers: How to calculate if you can afford a career break without ruining your FIRE timeline The exact house hacking strategy that saved Alex thirty thousand dollars per year Which expenses to cut first when living in a high-cost area How to maintain a high savings rate on a median income Alex's investment portfolio breakdown and FIRE number What she's actually doing during her sabbatical year Her strategic plan for returning to work at a higher salary Why taking time off might accelerate your financial independence journey And SO much more! 00:00 Taking a Year Off at 31 Without Ruining FIRE 01:39 How She Started 03:17 The Lifestyle Cuts That Actually Worked 07:46 Roommates Saved Her $30K/Year 12:10 Her Exact Investment Strategy Revealed 14:29 Why She Left Her Job 15:50 The Return Plan: Higher Pay, Same Freedom 22:30 What She's Actually Doing on Sabbatical 32:06 Follow Her FIRE Journey! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this episode of the BiggerPockets Money Podcast, hosts Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench are joined by tax experts Sean Mullaney and Cody Garrett to reveal how early retirement can actually be your smartest tax strategy. The conversation immediately tackles one of the biggest misconceptions holding people back from FIRE - the fear that retiring early means facing higher taxes. Instead, they demonstrate how lower retirement income typically translates to significantly lower tax bills, completely flipping the conventional wisdom about retirement tax planning. The discussion dives deep into their comprehensive approach to tax planning for early retirement, centered around the powerful concept of "Pay Tax When You Pay Less Tax." This isn't just theory - they break down practical, tax-efficient strategies that can save you thousands, including optimizing traditional 401k contributions, maximizing Roth IRA conversions, and strategically managing taxable investment accounts. These aren't complex maneuvers requiring a team of accountants; they're accessible strategies that any early retiree can implement. Beyond the big-picture tax strategies, this episode tackles the real-world challenges that derail many FIRE plans. Learn how to build robust emergency reserves that won't trigger unnecessary tax consequences, handle unexpected income disruptions without destroying your tax efficiency, and leverage advanced techniques like qualified charitable distributions to further reduce your tax burden. Whether you're years away from retirement or already making the transition, this episode provides actionable insights to minimize your lifetime tax burden while maximizing your financial independence. The discussion is intended to be for general educational purposes and is not tax, legal, or investment advice for any individual. Mindy, Scott, and the BiggerPockets Money podcast do not endorse Sean Mullaney, Mullaney Financial & Tax, Inc. and their services. 00:00 Taxes in Early Retirement 00:54 Debunking Tax Myths in Early Retirement 03:03 Understanding Taxable Income in Retirement 04:10 Effective Tax Strategies for Early Retirees 05:37 Capital Gains and Tax Rates 12:25 Tax Planning Tools and Calculators 23:43 Tax Optimization Strategies 24:27 Debate: 401k vs Roth IRA 24:56 Order of Operations for Financial Independence 25:42 Roth IRA Conversion Strategies 32:33 The Middle Class Trap 39:09 Tax Strategies for New Investors 44:21 Connect with Sean and Cody Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
What if we told you that your path to financial independence isn't about picking the perfect stocks, timing the market, or earning a massive salary? In this revealing episode of BiggerPockets Money, hosts Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench cut through all the noise to focus on what actually matters: your savings rate. This isn't just theoretical advice—Mindy and Scott get personal, sharing their own savings journeys, including the costly mistakes they made and the pivotal breakthroughs that transformed their financial lives. This episode completely reframes the conversation around saving money. Instead of extreme penny-pinching that breeds resentment, Mindy and Scott explore "creative frugality"—intelligent strategies that help you save significantly more without feeling deprived. From small incremental changes that compound into thousands of dollars annually to innovative approaches for slashing major expenses, you'll walk away with immediately actionable tactics that prove financial independence isn't about sacrifice—it's about smart optimization. This Episode Covers: Why your savings rate matters more than your investment returns or salary Mindy and Scott's personal savings rate journeys and biggest mistakes Lifestyle optimization strategies that boost savings without reducing happiness The psychology behind sustainable high savings rates Creative approaches to cutting your three biggest expenses Why starting a side business accelerates your FIRE timeline Investment strategies that support aggressive savers How to increase your savings rate at different career stages Common savings rate mistakes that derail FIRE progress How small changes compound into life-changing financial results And SO much more! 00:00 How to Supercharge Your Savings Rate 01:14 Mindy and Scott's Savings Rate 03:40 Strategies for High Savings Rates 11:50 Creative Ways to Reduce Expenses 20:02 Increasing Income 26:06 We want to hear from you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Pete Adeney, aka Mr. Money Mustache, joins BiggerPockets Money hosts Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench to break down the shockingly simple math behind early retirement. The man who started the FIRE movement and retired at 30 reveals why most people are overcomplicating financial independence—and why your savings rate is literally the only number that determines when you can quit your job. Pete doesn't just share theory—he walks through the real strategies, investment decisions, and mindset shifts that allowed him to achieve financial freedom in his thirties. Whether you're new to FIRE or looking to optimize your current approach, this episode cuts through the noise to deliver the foundational principles that actually work. This Episode Covers: The one metric that determines your entire FIRE timeline Why saving 50% gets you to FI in just 17 years (and the math behind it) How Pete retired at 30 and what his portfolio looked like The psychology of frugality and why it's actually liberating Pete's current thoughts on real estate investing for FIRE His take on Bitcoin and alternative assets in a FIRE portfolio Common FIRE mistakes that derail people's progress Why your income level matters less than you think Practical strategies for increasing your savings rate immediately The mindset shifts that make extreme saving sustainable And SO much more!00:00 The Basics of Early Retirement 01:02 The Shockingly Simple Math Behind Early Retirement 01:21 Understanding Your Savings Rate 05:41 Pre-Tax Savings and 401k Considerations 11:06 The 4% Safe Withdrawal Rate 13:09 Seven Levels of Safety in Early Retirement 28:44 The $50,000 Earner 31:51 Raising Kids on a Budget 35:17 Health Insurance in Early Retirement 41:39 Real Estate as a Retirement Strategy 46:41 Bitcoin and Speculative Investments 51:19 Connect with Mr. Money Mustache Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Scott Trench once felt limited in a corporate job, questioning whether financial freedom before retirement was even possible. Afraid of wasting decades climbing the corporate ladder for incremental raises at the cost of his freedom, he embraced frugality, disciplined saving, and smart investing. By the age of 27, he had achieved financial independence. In this episode, Scott shares his Financial Independence, Retire Early (FIRE) journey and actionable strategies for building wealth early, empowering you to reach financial freedom long before retirement. In this episode, Hala and Scott will discuss: (00:00) Introduction (02:23) From Early Career to BiggerPockets CEO (08:47) Scrappy Lessons and Startup Growth Hacks (13:51) Scaling BiggerPockets: Strategy and Growth (19:18) How BiggerPockets Makes Money (26:42) Stepping Down as CEO to Become a Full-Time Creator (30:14) The FIRE Movement and Its Evolving Models (39:47) Frugal Living, Wealth Building, and Saving Hacks (45:51) Smart Real Estate Strategies for Beginners (57:59) Different Paths to Financial Independence Scott Trench is a real estate investor and former CEO of BiggerPockets, the world's largest community for real estate investors. He co-hosts the BiggerPockets Money podcast, sharing insights on personal finance and wealth building. Scott is the bestselling author of Set for Life and a leading voice in the FIRE (Financial Independence, Retire Early) movement, promoting strategies for financial planning, investment, and early retirement. Sponsored By: Airbnb - Find yourself a cohost at airbnb.com/host Indeed - Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/PROFITING Shopify - Start your $1/month trial at Shopify.com/profiting. Mercury - Streamline your banking and finances in one place. Learn more at mercury.com/profiting Open Phone - Get 20% off your first 6 months at OpenPhone.com/profiting. DeleteMe - Remove your personal data online. Get 20% off DeleteMe consumer plans at to joindeleteme.com/profiting SKIMS - Shop SKIMS Fits Everybody collection at SKIMS.com Policy Genius - Secure your family's future with Policygenius. Head to policygenius.com/profiting Masterclass - Get an additional 15% off any annual membership at https://masterclass.com/profiting BitDefender - Save 30% on your subscription at bitdefender.com/profiting Resources Mentioned: Scott's Book, Set For Life: bit.ly/SetforLife Scott's Instagram: instagram.com/scott_trench Scott's Podcast, BiggerPockets Money: bit.ly/BPMP-apple Scott's YouTube, BiggerPockets Money: bit.ly/BPM-YouTube Active Deals - youngandprofiting.com/deals Key YAP Links Reviews - ratethispodcast.com/yap YouTube - youtube.com/c/YoungandProfiting LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/htaha/ Instagram - instagram.com/yapwithhala/ Social + Podcast Services: yapmedia.com Transcripts - youngandprofiting.com/episodes-new Entrepreneurship, Entrepreneurship Podcast, Business, Business Podcast, Self Improvement, Self-Improvement, Personal Development, Starting a Business, Strategy, Investing, Sales, Selling, Psychology, Productivity, Entrepreneurs, AI, Artificial Intelligence, Technology, Marketing, Negotiation, Money, Finance, Side Hustle, Startup, Mental Health, Career, Leadership, Mindset, Health, Growth Mindset, Stock Market, Scalability, Risk Management, Business Coaching, Finance Podcast.
Ever wondered how financial experts ACTUALLY manage their own money? Mindy Jensen opens her real financial accounts LIVE on this episode! In this groundbreaking BiggerPockets Money podcast episode, hosts Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench deliver unprecedented financial transparency. Mindy tracks her personal net worth and finances in real-time using Monarch Money, giving you an authentic behind-the-scenes look at how a financial expert truly manages her money. This Episode Covers: Live demonstration of actual account connections Mindy's real spending patterns and financial habits Advanced Monarch Money features most people miss How to automate your entire financial tracking system Why regular financial reviews change everything Exclusive listener discount for Monarch Money (Get 50% off your 1st Year with the Promo Code POCKETS) Whether you're drowning in financial chaos or ready to level up your money management game, this episode shows you exactly how to centralize and streamline your finances like a true professional. 00:39 Why We Love Monarch Money 01:50 Tracking Your Net Worth 06:29 Setting Up Your Monarch Money Account 16:39 Budgeting How To 22:06 Tracking Spending 25:05 Total Net Worth 27:48 Setting Up Monarch Money 35:11 Sign up for Monarch Money Today! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fear that early retirement is out of the question because you have too much debt? It's not game over. Whether you're debt-free or still chipping away at your student loans, today's guest is proof that FIRE is never too far out of reach—even when life throws you a curveball that leaves you with $90,000 in debt! Welcome back to the "BiggerPockets Money" podcast! Aubrey Williams thought his financial world was crumbling when his divorce was finalized, leaving him staring down $90,000 in debt. Most would assume this spells doom for financial independence, but Aubrey knew he could dig his way out by increasing his income, cutting costs, and staying laser-focused on his goals. In just eight years, he snowballed out of debt and toward his long-term goal—achieving financial independence at 45. Now that he's turned his financial ship around, he's focused on building wealth for the future. Tune in to learn how he transformed his finances into a comeback story, why he refuses to let setbacks define his dreams, and what his path to FIRE looks like after starting over! 01:05 FI After 90k in Debt 04:32 How to Fast Track FI 05:51 The Path to Savings 14:21 Financial Pillars 19:47 Career Shifts During FI 32:45 The Value of Financial Planning 42:39 Entrepreneurial Journey and Lessons Learned 47:16 Connect with Aubrey Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices